SDI Convergence - Global Spatial Data Infrastructure Association

The complexity of work, which was required to produce such a representation, illustrated
the eventual need of a systematic and computerised approach in order to provide
an exhaustive and complete portrait of the sector. Therefore, a computerised dynamic
model of GI flows was implemented.
With the goal of rendering the understanding and manipulation of the model easier,
different versions were developed before implementing the latest version of the Socioscope
prototype (Figure 1).
5.2. Concepts and principles of Socioscope
The modelling process of GI flows within the geomatic sector in Quebec is complex
and the representation that has been provided could not be understood without an accurate
analysis. The Socioscope prototype was developed, firstly, in the context of a
master’s thesis (Marion, 2005). It aimed to present the formal and informal links between
people inside a single organisation, based on the concept of social network
analysis.
Figure 2: Main interface of the prototype.
This first prototype was adapted for EcoGeo I purposes and applied to several organisations.
A specific interface was developed and a database was built allowing the storage
of relevant information about GI flows. The structure of the database also allowed
to easily update information during the EcoGeo Phase II.
The main user interface of the prototype includes the organisations that were identified.
If these organisations play more than one role in the geomatic sector, they were
grouped by their primary role - data producer, solution integrator, and user (listed in
Figure 1 and 2 with the corresponding French names: producteur, intégrateur, and
utilisateur).
Organisations are located on the visual interface depending on their statute (private
sector on the right, public sector on the left). The drop-down menu on the left extremity
of the interface gives users direct access to the list of organisations that are graphically
represented in the main windows.
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